Thanks in advance for your help!!


I am in the market for a new warm weather day pack (1500 to 2000 cu in, about 24 to 26 L). I am a geophysicist/geologist by trade and so I carry rocks and tools & need a rugged bag, not the ultralight stuff that is so common on the market. I have tried panel loading packs in the past with little luck, The zipper is carrying all the load and fails very quickly. The recent review of the GoRuck GR1 has lead me to believe that I may try one again.

The bag can be top loading or panel loading, should be relatively clean and narrow, needs some sort of frame and/or back protection and must have the ability to lash long items (poles to support a Magnatometer or GPS mostly, but sometimes a Polaski or other tool) on the side (one of the things the GR1 lacks). I would prefer a leather bottom (or at least extra heavy/double fabric), light color (this is my summer bag) and a non-military look. I would like the availibility of a waist strap (not a hipbelt).

Any help would be appreciated.

Jerry